Razorbill

Lifespan

25–30 years in the wild

Size & Weight

37–39 cm, wingspan 63–67 cm; 570–650 g

Habitat

Rocky coastal cliffs, offshore islands, and open ocean waters; returns to breeding colonies in spring.

UK Distribution

Found around much of the UK and Irish coastlines, particularly in Scotland, northern England, Wales, and south-west England. Summer breeder (April–August); winters at sea, dispersing into the Atlantic.

Diet

Primarily small fish, especially sandeels, sprats, and capelin, caught by diving and pursuit underwater.

Prey

Sandeels, sprats, capelin, and other small fish species

Predators

Great black-backed gulls, herring gulls, and other large gulls; rats and foxes at breeding colonies; seals and fish during immature stages.

Mating Season

April to August

Breeding

Single egg laid in bare cliff crevices or burrows; incubation period 32–39 days; one brood per year; chick fledges at 35–46 days.

Things With Wings

Species Profile

Sources and editorial status